Adhyasa, commonly translated as “superimposition” or “misapprehension,” is a central concept in Advaita Vedanta, a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy founded by Adi Shankaracharya.

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Adhyasa refers to the error of attributing characteristics of one thing to another, resulting in a distorted understanding of reality. It plays a crucial role in Advaita Vedanta’s analysis of the relationship between the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the empirical world.

Key Aspects of Adhyasa:

Adhyaropa (Superimposition):

Adhyasa involves the process of superimposing or attributing characteristics of one entity onto another. This occurs when a person confuses the attributes of the empirical world with the ultimate reality (Brahman) or when the unreal is mistaken for the real.

Example of Rope-Snake Analogy:

The classic example used to illustrate adhyasa is the rope-snake analogy. In dim light, a coiled rope might be mistaken for a snake, leading to a misapprehension of the true nature of the object. Similarly, in the empirical world, individuals superimpose qualities of the material world onto the ultimate reality.

Cause of Error:

Adi Shankaracharya explains that adhyasa is rooted in ignorance (avidya) about the true nature of reality. Ignorance leads to a distorted perception of the world, causing individuals to attribute permanence, reality, and significance to the changing and transient aspects of the empirical world.

Role in Advaita Vedanta:

Adhyasa is crucial in Advaita Vedanta’s analysis of the relationship between the empirical world (vyavaharika) and the ultimate reality (paramarthika). The superimposition of attributes onto Brahman creates the illusion of diversity and multiplicity in the world, which Advaita seeks to dispel through knowledge (jnana) and self-realization.

Now, regarding Shankaracharya’s characterization of avidya (ignorance) as “anirvachaniya”:

Avidya as Anirvachaniya:

Indescribable and Inexpressible:

Shankaracharya refers to avidya as “anirvachaniya,” which means indescribable or inexpressible. Avidya is considered the fundamental ignorance that veils the true nature of reality, including the oneness of Brahman.

Limitations of Language and Thought:

Avidya is considered anirvachaniya because it transcends the scope of language and thought. It is not something that can be precisely described or defined, as it operates at a level beyond ordinary conceptualization.

Obstacle to Direct Knowledge:

Avidya obstructs direct knowledge of Brahman by veiling the true nature of the self (atman) and creating a distorted understanding of the empirical world. Its indescribable nature emphasizes the challenge of articulating the nature of ignorance itself.

Only Removed by Jnana (Knowledge):

According to Advaita Vedanta, avidya can only be dispelled through knowledge (jnana) and self-realization. Shankaracharya emphasizes the transformative power of knowledge in removing the veil of ignorance and revealing the ultimate reality, which is beyond ordinary linguistic expression.

In summary, Adhyasa (superimposition) is the process of attributing characteristics of one entity onto another, leading to a distorted understanding of reality. Avidya (ignorance) is characterized as “anirvachaniya” by Shankaracharya, highlighting its indescribable nature and emphasizing the need for transcendent knowledge to dispel the illusions created by ignorance.